Mushroom drum

Growing mushrooms in a drum using bags is a simple and effective method that anyone can try at home. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

What You Need

• A big plastic or metal drum

• Mushroom spawn (tiny mushroom seeds)

• Growing media (like straw, sawdust, or coffee grounds)

• Strong plastic bags (to hold the growing media)

• Water

• A drill (to make holes in the drum)

Steps to Grow Mushrooms in a Drum

1. Prepare the Drum: Clean the drum well. Drill some holes around the sides of the drum. These holes will let fresh air in and help keep the mushrooms healthy.

2. Prepare the Growing Bags:

• Fill strong plastic bags with the growing media, like straw or sawdust. Make sure the media is moist but not soaking wet.

• Mix in the mushroom spawn (tiny seeds) with the growing media in each bag.

3. Hang the Bags Inside the Drum:

• Hang the bags inside the drum. The drum helps keep the environment just right for the mushrooms to grow—dark, cool, and humid.

• Make sure there is some space between the bags for air to flow.

4. Incubation:

• Close the drum and keep it in a dark, warm place (around 20-25°C). This will allow the mushroom seeds to spread and grow inside the bags.

5. Fruiting Stage:

• After a few weeks, you will see small mushrooms starting to form inside the bags. This means it’s time to move the drum to a spot with some light but not direct sunlight.

• Keep the drum slightly open or make more holes to increase airflow. Spray water inside to keep the bags moist.

6. Harvesting:

• Once the mushrooms are big enough, cut them off gently. Be careful not to damage the bags or the remaining mushrooms.

Tips for Success

• Ideal Temperature: Keep the drum at around 20-25°C for growing and 15-20°C for fruiting.

• Maintain Moisture: Spray water regularly inside the drum to keep it humid.

• Control Temperature: If it’s too hot, spray cool water on the drum or place it in the shade. If it’s too cold, insulate it with blankets or cloth.

By hanging the mushroom bags inside a drum, you can create a perfect little environment for growing delicious mushrooms at home!